The perception of employer value propositions and the contrast between Dutch and Chinese graduates: A case study of TNT

Abstract

Subject area

HRM; recruitment; managing cultural expectations in business; leadership.

Study level/applicability

Undergraduate management courses; MBA and MSc.

Case overview

This case focuses on recruitment problems in Europe with an Asian dimension. A young Dutch and a young Chinese graduate are considering a career with postal, courier and logistics firm TNT – what are their concerns as graduating students in looking for a job? From the opposite perspective, the case considers how employers attract graduate recruits. The case encourages students of a wide range of cultural backgrounds to question if they are following their cultural norms, or their own personal needs, regardless of their culture. It introduces students to the concept of perceptions of employer value propositions (EVPs) and how employers can “market” themselves to employees. The case is appropriate for courses in leadership, human resource management, corporate social responsibility (CSR), managing culture, also job hunting and career workshops.

Expected learning outcomes

This case is aimed at projecting the importance of career choice criteria from both graduate and employer perspectives. The case examines issues of national culture and associated differences in employee and organizational expectations. The case also examines the role of CSR in attracting employees; and the particular concerns of Generation Y employees.

Supplementary materials

Teaching note.

Citation

Jones, S. and Ahmad, A. (2011), "The perception of employer value propositions and the contrast between Dutch and Chinese graduates: A case study of TNT", , Vol. 1 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/20450621111117125